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Chickpeas with Paneer Cheese

Though I have enjoyed cooking for many years, not all that long ago I would sometimes refrain from eating when faced with emotional stresses. Needless to say, this was counter-productive and not a very healthy approach to stress. One of the most important lessons I have learned this past year is the therapeutic nature of cooking. If you like to cook, producing delicious nourishing food is an excellent way to channel negative energy — we all must eat after all. 2007 was a challenging year for me, the most serious trial being the death of my mother back in June. To this day, I am thankful that my Mom taught me the joy of baking and cooking because it has helped me deal with the blues on many occasions.

It is now January, a rather cheerless time of year for those of us who do not enjoy the short days and cold temperatures we get in Canada over the winter months. That means it's time for some serious comfort food. Two of my favorite foods are chickpeas and paneer cheese, so I made this warming spicy Indian chickpea and paneer cheese dish just for that reason.

Rinse the chickpeas and soak for 8 hours or overnight in several inches of water. Drain and rinse, then transfer to a large saucepan and cover with 4 cups of fresh water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 to 2 hours or until the chickpeas are buttery soft. Drain and reserve 1 cup of the cooking liquid.

Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons of the ghee or oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. When hot, add the paneer cubes and gently fry, turning often, until the cubes are nicely browned on all sides. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Heat the remaining ghee or oil over medium heat in a large saucepan. When hot, add the onion, garlic and ginger and sauté until the onions are browned. Add the cumin seeds and bay leaf, let sizzle for a few seconds, then add the chilies, ground coriander, ground cumin, turmeric, cayenne, salt and pepper, and stir for another minute. Stir in the tomato and cook for 2 to 3 minutes.

Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons of the ghee or oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. When hot, add the paneer cubes and gently fry, turning often, until the cubes are nicely browned on all sides. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Now add 1/2 cup of the reserved chickpea cooking liquid (or water) and stir in the cooked chickpeas and fried paneer cubes. Cook gently for another 5 - 8 minutes, adding more liquid to achieve the desired consistency. When the dish is nearly done, stir in the lemon juice and garam masala. Serve hot.

Based in London, Ontario, a veteran vegetarian for 23 years serves up a collection of delicious culinary creations from her kitchen, with an emphasis on spicy Indian dishes and whole foods. If you want to know what sensible vegetarians eat, Lisa's Kitchen is the place to be.